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Cheryl Chafos honors her late son, Zachary, by advocating for autism training among healthcare professionals… His younger brothers were now so scared they often locked themselves in the bathroom. Cheryl and Tim were looking into group homes but none would take him while he exhibited aggressive behavior. But they couldn’t handle him on their own … away.  For 19 years Cheryl spent countless hours advocating on Zach’s behalf with school staffs, doctors, therapists, support agencies and others-as well as driving to therapies, consultations and events. She had spent the last 59 days up … is needed to better recognize and address mental health issues in those like Zach with challenging behaviors and high support needs. Research and clinical programs supported by Autism CARES Act could help develop more personalized treatment …

Members of the autism community explain how they overcame bullying to reach their full potential … felt worthless like I shouldn’t be here because I didn’t deserve to be. But with the help of my faith and the love of my supportive family and friends, I now go to an amazing school, make amazing grades, have an amazing and supportive group of friends! I’m also on the varsity cheerleading team and sing in my school’s choir!  Because of the experiences I’ve …

Reflecting on my nonspeaking autistic son's 40th birthday… home. I smile when you take selfies with me because you seem to like that. I continue to need your help, understanding, and support in many ways. Fourth.   Let go of your anger. You’ve written about how the loss of the perfect son you dreamed of … to speak, read, or write. Thanks to your love and advocacy on my behalf, I live the safest life possible for me in a group home where I can live with support out in the world.  I love our car rides and walks in the park when you visit. These days, when you come to visit, I …

Finding myself in autism… For the most part, I am shy and reserved but I am rather successful in life. I have a great job and a loving family that supports me. I think that sharing my story will help those growing up autistic to see they can lead very functional and fulfilling lives with the right support group in place. I also think that a lot of parents panic when they learn their child is autistic, but the truth is they …

In our own words: Bullying in the autism community … From primary school through college, I was bullied. I was removed from four schools and never felt I received the support I needed from many of my teachers.  It affected my mental health a lot, to the point where I didn't want … received many therapies and services to reach the point he’s at today. He’s been in speech therapy, social skills groups, went through applied behavior analysis therapy (ABA) and is on an Individualized Education Program … to him and didn’t want to include him in the playground activities.     How have you, your family and friends helped and supported Noah through the experience of being bullied?   We supported him by communicating with his …

In our own words: Two years since the COVID-19 pandemic began, the autism community shares how life has changed … 2020. It sent me into a spiral of depression, resentment and loneliness, which I wouldn’t wish on anyone. It took a great group of friends and the encouragement from my family to pull me out of those tough times. I’m so thankful to have them in … Losing my grandmother was very hard. That was just after the pandemic began, so it’s been difficult. I relied heavily on my support system to get me through that and many other setbacks along the way. It hasn’t been easy, but they’ve helped me … on with our lives as much as we can. We take things day by day and do what’s best for our family.   What are you doing to support Leslie’s growth and wellbeing during this time?  When the pandemic began, we were transitioning between therapy …

Questions and answers about ABA … reinforcement to teach her son how to get to work on a public bus is using ABA principles.  Without as much in-clinic support, parents, family members and caregivers often play a more active role in ABA-based learning for this age group. The key is for the person to get rewarded for their efforts with positive reinforcement, either from a … visual and physical prompts as needed.  Break down tasks into small steps. Use picture prompts or other communication supports if needed to show each step.  Spend time working with the person on their goals every day. Practice the same …